(The following article originally appeared in The Huntsville Forester on April 8, 2009.)
The Huntsville Festival of the Arts (HFA) has been recognized for its efforts by Festivals and Events Ontario.
Out of approximately 2,500 annual festivals and events staged each year in Ontario, the HFA has been named one of the top 100. The recognition is for the period April 2008 to March 2009, and the announcement was made at the Festival and Events Ontario 23rd annual conference held March 7 at the Holiday Inn Burlington Hotel and Conference Centre.
Kareen Burns, HFA president, said she was thrilled to hear about the recognition. “I have had a dream that is, quite miraculously, becoming a reality. Our dynamic and eclectic Huntsville Festival of the Arts has been delightfully acknowledged in the top 100 festivals in Ontario. I am so proud of our wonderful and creative team who made this happen. We all look forward to a wonderful and creative future.”
Solicitations for submissions from Festivals and Events Ontario were issued toward the end of the previous calendar year, and an independent jury of industry peers conducted the selection process just prior to the conference, said executive director Gary Masters. “Recognition is eagerly sought by (festival and event) organizers as evidence of their ability to stand out amongst the many deserving of the honour,” he said.
The festivals and events industry in Ontario encompasses many experiences, which include traditional festivals, agricultural fairs, exhibitions and shows, heritage, music, performing arts, sports, highland games, holiday celebrations, aboriginal events, culinary, outdoor activities and more.
To view the top 100 festivals and events winners go to www.festivalsandeventsontario.ca.
